Carbon Dots in Cancer Therapeutics: Advancements in Drug Delivery and Imaging Technologies

Carbon dots are emerging as versatile nanomaterials in cancer therapeutics due to their unique physio-chemical and optical properties. Their synthesis via top-down and bottom-up methods allows for precise control over chemical structures and functionalization, enabling the production of CDs having superior optical qualities, minimal toxicity and high biocompatibility. Recent research highlights the quantum-confined properties of CDs, making them efficient photocatalysts and enhancing their use in biological applications such as cellular bioimaging, biomarker detection and pharmacological sensing. CDs have demonstrated tremendous potential in delivering drugs and bioimaging for cancer treatment. Photoactive near-infrared CDs are notable for deep tissue penetration and superior imaging in photodynamic therapy. CDs integrated into mesoporous silica nanoparticles demonstrate potent anticancer activity through apoptosis-mediated cell death while their unique optical properties support precise tumor imaging and treatment strategies. Green synthesis methods further align CDs with sustainable nanotechnology, producing biocompatible and effective CDs for applications such as metal ion sensing and microbial bioimaging. Surface functionalization techniques have improved CDs solubility, biocompatibility and photoluminescence, expanding their applications across imaging, treatment and diagnostics for cancer. Their synthesis from renewable sources, combined with their tunable properties and biocompatibility, underscores their potential to advance cancer treatment strategies while promoting sustainable practices towards sustainable cancer treatment.